German Spitz (Mittel) vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison

German Spitz (Mittel) vs Akbash Dog - Breed ComparisonAkbash Dog is originated from Turkey but German Spitz (Mittel) is originated from Germany. Akbash Dog may grow 46 cm / 19 inches higher than German Spitz (Mittel). Akbash Dog may weigh 54 kg / 120 pounds more than German Spitz (Mittel). Akbash Dog may live 4 years less than German Spitz (Mittel). Akbash Dog may have more litter size than German Spitz (Mittel). Both Akbash Dog and German Spitz (Mittel) requires Moderate Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Companion dog
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Turkey
Germany
Height Male:
74 - 84 cm
29 - 34 inches
30 - 38 cm
11 - 15 inches
Height Female:
71 - 79 cm
27 - 32 inches
30 - 38 cm
11 - 15 inches
Weight Male:
50 - 65 kg
110 - 144 pounds
7 - 11 kg
15 - 25 pounds
Weight Female:
40 - 55 kg
88 - 122 pounds
7 - 11 kg
15 - 25 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 11 Years
10 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
8 - 9
3 - 5
Size:
Large
Medium
Other Names:
Deutscher Spitz Mittel
Colors Available:
Brindle, White, Red Fawn, Liver, White & Biscuit and Blue Fawn
liver, Tan, black - mixed colors, fawn, white
Coat:
Dense, Medium and Short, Harsh and Rough
Long, dense
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Courageous, Independent, Intelligent, Loyal
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

History

akbash dogAkbash breed became popular in the 1970s. Around that period, Akbash was introduced to North America. There is archeological evidence that this breed was popular even in the 750-300 BC. Of course, it wasn’t the exact dog as we know it today, but there are many similarities between Akbash and dog from the ancient period. This breed was developed in Turkey to be a guardian dog. They were perfect flock guardians.

german spitz mittelOriginating in Germany, the German Spitz Mittel is an alert, vigilant dog and it is these qualities that made him sought after for working on farms.

He is no new breed and is the 3rd largest of the five German Spitz varieties. It is believed that the German Spitz descended from the Northern sled and herding dogs which arrived with the Vikings into Europe. When you do research you see that the dogs are mentioned in German literature which dates way back to to 1450 already.

Description

akbash dog puppy - descriptionWeight of the Akbash dog variates from 41-64kg, while their height is 71-78cm. Female Akbash is smaller than a male Akbash, but not for much. A lifespan of an average Akbash dog is 10-11 years, but if they have cared properly, they tend to live longer. Litter Size of Akbash is 8-9 puppies. Another Name for Akbash is Akbas Coban Kopegi, Coban Kopegi.

german spitz mittel puppy - descriptionThe German Spitz Mittel is similar in looks to the other sizes of German Spitz. The Mittel is a medium sized dog and stands between 30 and 38cm in height and weighs between 7 and 11kg. You’ll find him in solid colors such as tan, liver, white, fawn, black or a mix of these colors.

He has a soft woolly undercoat and a long outercoat with a mane-like ruff at the neck. He has a fairly long muzzle, dark eyes, sharp erect ears and a bushy tail which curls over his back.

Temperament:

Affectionate, faithful, and always happy by nature, the German Spitz Mittel is a family companion that wants to be part of everything his human family is up to. He makes a good watchdog. He is alert and has a distrust of strangers.

He gets on well with children in the home and he can also live in peace with other dogs. Because he is an intelligent dog, you won’t have much trouble with training- and socializing him, although he will require a firm, consistent owner and trainer.

Training and socialization are important as there are always some important commands such as sit, stay, come and lie down that you will want him to respond to immediately.

Characteristics

akbash dog dog - characteristicsHave in mind that Akbash is a large and powerful dog. They are bred through generations to be guardians and suspicious. They are very independent because they tend to make their own decisions while guarding flocks. They will require adequate socialization, but overall, they are very intelligent and they tend to learn quickly. It requires time and patience, but are great pets for right owners. Akbash has a white to biscuit color coat. They also have a dark pigment around nose, eyes, and mouth. Akbash is very quick and agile dog, which might be surprised because of its size.

It is important to train them since the puppyhood. They are working dogs and they will be happy when they have tasks during training. Due to their independence, consistent and steady training is important. An old-fashioned way of training that includes punishment is not recommendable. Positive training with awards is the best way to train your Akbash dog. They do not require a lot of daily exercises. Daily walks would do more than enough. Younger dogs need more exercise than more mature ones. They can be very good for other animals, but they have to be socialized with them. It is the best way to socialize your dog when it is still a puppy.

german spitz mittel dog - characteristicsPeople who have owned a German Spitz Mittel are delighted with him, saying that he is such an easy-going, happy dog. He is social and thrives on the interaction he has with his human family.

He won’t do well if you simply put him in your backyard and forget about him, using him merely as a watchdog.

The German Spitz Mittel dog is one dog that definitely lives up to the title of man’s best friend. He is social, happy, loving, loyal, playful, entertaining and smart too, and when you treat him the way he deserves, you’ve got the most awesome friend.

Health Problems

akbash dog puppies - health problemsGenerally, Akbash is a very healthy breed. They do not have any major health issues. As many large breeds, they can develop hip dysplasia and OCD. But with proper care, regular vet checks, and choosing the right puppy, you won’t be having any problems.

german spitz mittel puppies - health problemsGerman Spitz dogs are healthy, and when you shower him with love and attention and good food, you can expect to have him around for up to 15 years of age.

Of course, as with any other healthy dog breeds, there are always one or two common dog illnesses that your dog may get. These include hip dysplasia and eye diseases. If you notice symptoms that indicate possible joint issues with your pet, get him to the vet immediately.

Patellar Luxation for instance occurs when your dog’s kneecap is dislocated. It is more common in toy breeds like the German Spitz. It can be painful for your pet and lead to lameness. If your dog has problems with his hip, it can actually force the patella out of its groove, which is a secondary condition.

Caring The Pet

Feeding the Akbash

akbash dog dogs - caringAkbash dog is very easy to care. They can stay fit on a minimum amount of food. 2-2.5 cups divided into two meals would be ideal for your dog. They require meat, so giving them dry industrial food can be a solid substitute. Vegetables and oil can also be included in meals. It will keep your dog healthy and happy.

Feeding the Akbash

Puppies have to eat more meals per day. It is the best to give your puppy Akbash 3-5 meals per day. Those meals should be divided into smaller portions. It is recommended to give your puppy all necessary vitamins and minerals that include calcium for stronger bones. It will improve the overall health of your dog, and it will help it develop into a healthy adult dog.

Grooming the Akbash

Akbash will request some grooming, but they are not very difficult to groom. They require regular grooming. Every few days will be enough, except when they are shedding. Akbash will need daily grooming when shed. You can bath your pet occasionally, but not very often. Bathing, if necessary, should be done only 5-6 times a year. There is no need for more.

Grooming:

german spitz mittel dogs - caringYou can help reduce loose hairs with your German Spitz by brushing his thick coat twice a week. It’s a good time to also inspect your dog for ticks and fleas.

Exercise:

Your German Spitz Mittel isn’t the most active dog, but he will still need regular exercise. Going on a walk is good for both you and him. He is a mentally sharp dog too and these walks keep him both physically- and mentally fit. He also loves ball games.

Diet:

Every dog deserves the best food, and if you feed your German Spitz Mittel with a commercially manufactured dog food, make sure its one of the top quality ones. You want to avoid foods packed with preservatives, colorants and fillers. You want dog foods with minerals and vitamins with high protein and ingredients such as Omega 3 and 6 to promote health skin.

There are also some dog foods which have ingredients in them such as polyphosphates. Ingredients like this keep your dog’s teeth clean.

Try and also give him some cooked rice, vegetables and chicken mixed into his kibble from time to time as well as raw meat. He should never be without fresh, cool water.

Comparison with other breeds

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  30. Akbash Dog vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
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  34. Akbash Dog vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Akbash Dog vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Akbash Dog vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Akbash Dog vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Akbash Dog vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Akbash Dog vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Akbash Dog vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Akbash Dog vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Akbash Dog vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Akbash Dog vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Akbash Dog vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Akbash Dog vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Akita vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Africanis vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  48. Askal vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  49. Atlas Terrier vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
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